Saturday

Nov 17, 2012 at 12:01 AM

As hundreds of homeowner meet at Sandestin this weekend, resort officials are rolling out the red carpet, and unveiling plans and improvements for 2013.

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort manages more than 1,200 units for homeowners, bringing them a full menu of the top amenities and rental management services including reservations, marketing, housekeeping, engineering and 24/7 property services.

“We provide the best combination of benefits to people who rent their vacation unit and want to receive a good return on investment,” said Amanda Ferguson, director of Sandestin Property Management.

Sandestin Rental Management brings in a powerful arsenal of benefits, unmatched by any other company in the area.

In addition to 24/7 on property management services including front desk, accounting and housekeeping, Sandestin delivers important resources including revenue management, marketing and publicity to thousands of guests and prospective guests. Sandestin also brought more than 700 meetings and events to the area this year, an economic engine for resort rentals, and is the only authorized provider of group room nights.

“Because Sandestin brings in more business than any other rental management company in the area for one property, we can deliver homeowners higher nightly room revenue and greater opportunities for profitability,” added Ferguson.

As part of its partnership with people renting their vacation units, the resort also offers remodeling assistance, including lower costs on furniture, fixtures, appliances, equipment and renovations, due to the resort’s size and purchasing volume.

According to homeowner Jennifer Price, “Sandestin Rental Management provides the best service with the most profitable returns.”

Among many of the developments to be announced this weekend, Sandestin is officially introducing homeowners to a new team of experienced leadership with extensive experience including Sandestin’s new general manager, Mark Hodgdon; Ron Carnes, head of engineering and other expert staff.

Mark Hodgdon for example has more than 30 years of hospitality experience, including management of some of North America’s leading properties such as The Phoenician in Arizona, Ritz Carlton hotels in California and Georgia, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and theGrand Wailea Resort in Hawaii. He has a strong commitment to operational excellence, customer service and to the staff who help achieve those important benchmarks.

Ron Carnes joined Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort as director of engineering with more than 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Carnes’ impressive hospitality background includes management of operations and maintenance at ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals, located in Northwest Florida. Carnes is also a licensed Community Association Manager (CAM) in the State of Florida.

These leaders combined with Ferguson’s team of eight expert rental managers and staff, plus the hundreds of Sandestin support employees, means significant bench strength and service to rental homeowners.

“Sandestin Rental Management is the best they’ve ever been. The team is fantastic — very responsive and attentive,” said Jean Ann and Pat Griffin. Nancy and Tom King of Alabama agree, “The experience is very convenient, thorough and worry free. “

In addition to the economic benefits of using Sandestin Rental Management, the company offers homeowners in its program the best package of amenities to enjoy the resort. These benefits include access to all Sandestin amenities such as tennis, bike rentals, children’s programs, fitness center, transportation, watersports and special pricing on golf, retail and services. One of the most popular features of the program is preferred beach services as well.

“Sandestin Rental Management is great. With their amenities and benefits, we have been able to create family memories and traditions,”said Tina Wong of Louisiana.

The resort has a long list of homeowners who have been with the rental management program because of all of its benefits. Steve and Shelda Heidecker, who have been with the program for 20 years, said “We appreciate all Sandestin has to offer. It allows us to have the lifestyle we enjoy.”

At this weekend’s meeting, Sandestin will also announce the many recognitions and achievements it has earned in recent weeks. Among Sandestin’s awards and honors are “Best Resort in Destin” by Emerald Coast Magazine, “Fodor’s Choice” by international travel publisher Fodor’s; Best of the South Award by Meeting South Magazine, Best Family Beach by iVillage.com; and Best of 2012 Weddings by The Knot.

Resort officials are optimistic about the months ahead.

“We have an excellent team in place, a great group of rental homeowners, positive forward momentum and a solid plan for the future,” said Sandestin General Manager Mark Hodgdon.